SNC Lavalin Inc. ASL-JV and Voith Hydro were the main sub-contractors.

Overview

The $900 million Waneta Expansion adds a second powerhouse located immediately downstream of the Waneta Dam on the Pend d’Oreille River. The expansion shares the existing hydraulic head and generates power from water that would otherwise be spilled. Output from the new powerhouse is stepped-up to 230 kV and delivered to BC Hydro’s Selkirk Substation through a new 10 km transmission line. The expansion produces clean, renewable, cost-effective, power for all British Columbians.

During construction the owners met regularly with a Community Impact Management Committee (CIMC), consisting of local residents, members of local and regional government, first nations, and the contractors. These stakeholders provided support to encourage positive community impacts and benefits and relayed community concerns resulting from construction of the project. The CIMC oversaw an independent socio-economic monitor who produced reports available to the public.

The project was committed to a high standard of quality, safety and environmental stewardship.

Columbia Power managed the construction of this project on behalf of the owners. Fortis Inc. 51%, Columbia Power 32.5% and Columbia Basin Trust 16.5%.